Riddle 036: What is it that nobody wants to have, yet nobody wants to lose?

[puzzlerprince]

[A - ACTION - Hospital.

On an ordinary day, during an ordinary visit to the hospital (perhaps to see Ema), the Riddler winds up running into another familiar face. But there's something quite different about him today. He's got that cheery look in his eyes, a dopey smile that's been plastered onto his face. But unlike his ordinary childish facade,

Comments

[ phone ]

[notalwystrthful]

The way you worded the question leaves it vague, Mr. Nigma.

However, is it someone dear that Mayfield took from you?

[puzzlerprince]

There's nothing dear about that imbecile at all.

...and no. That isn't the answer.

[notalwystrthful]

Are you sure it isn't? Your tone dictates otherwise.

[puzzlerprince]

I can assure you, Ms. Ethelbert, it isn't.

[notalwystrthful]

Very well.

[ She decides to think on the answer. Give her a couple of moments. ]

Is the answer yesterday?

[puzzlerprince]

It is, indeed. Excellent work.

[notalwystrthful]

Thank you.

So, allow me to piece my two answers together, Mr. Nigma. The "imbecile" you mentioned previously, he or she was here yesterday, I figure. And, they no longer are here today, right?

[puzzlerprince]

...insightful as ever. Aren't you?

[notalwystrthful]

I've been told it's one of my talents, so to speak.

[puzzlerprince]

You truly are quite the prodigy.

[notalwystrthful]

I suppose I should thank you, Mr. Nigma.

But, really - will you be okay without them or are they someone you've known for a long time?

[puzzlerprince]

I've known him for years.

But I'll be more than okay without him. I'm... certain of that.

[notalwystrthful]

Are you sure? Your hesitation says otherwise.